How to Become an Equipment Operator

An equipment operator is a skilled tradesperson who is specially licensed to operate the class of machines designated as "heavy equipment," which include cranes, bulldozers, forklifts and many other industrial vehicles. Because of the skill required to become an equipment operator, it is a profession that tends to be in very high demand nationwide. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• High school diploma
• Commercial driver's license

Prepare for a Career as an Equipment Operator

1. Get a commercial driver's license (CDL) that certifies you to become a truck driver. Gain some professional experience driving commercial trucks, as vocational schools consider applicants with proven experience operating and maintaining large industrial vehicles more attractive.
2. Finish high school, or complete a high school equivalency examination. Because you need specialized problem-solving skills to become an equipment operator, a formal education through at least the secondary level is required.
3. Work in the construction industry, and try to gain experience working with smaller construction equipment that does not qualify as "heavy." Many vocational schools will require you to demonstrate a proficiency in construction, so you can get a head start with some practical on-the-job training.
4. Know your traffic laws to the letter. Some types of heavy equipment require road operation, and you'll have to become specially licensed to drive them.
5. Secure an apprenticeship in heavy equipment operation with a construction company that has membership in a professional organization or labor union. It is important that the company be a recognized one for your apprenticeship experience to be universally accepted.
6. Train in-class at a community college, trade school or vocational institution. The certification or associate degree you will attain through a school will go a long way in landing you a better job.
7. Complete your apprenticeship or in-class training program. The certification you will be awarded upon successful completion of your apprenticeship or course work will be your ticket to a career as a heavy equipment operator. You can learn more about specific requirements for certification in your state through the non-profit National Center for Construction Education and Research (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Depending on the state you live in, you may be required to complete separate certification for each class of heavy equipment you want to operate professionally. You can learn more about your state's requirements through your trade school or vocational institute.

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